England’s cruncher

Wednesday, 31/08/2011

by Malcolm Cox

Fabio Capello and his England team make the long trip to Bulgaria for their Euro 2012 qualifier against Bulgaria on Friday.

The match comes on the back of a disappointing draw with Switzerland last time out. With Montenegro level on points with Capello’s team, this fixture is critical to England’s hopes of qualification.

With some key injuries, there will be uncertainty surrounding selections. However, England should be considerably stronger than Bulgaria in all areas of the pitch.

While Joe Hart will almost certainly start in Sofia, the injury and withdrawal of Rob Green has given Derby County and Under-21 keeper Frankie Fielding a taste of the international set-up. However, David Stockdale will probably be on the bench for the game.

With Rio Ferdinand out injured, there are a number of contenders to partner John Terry in the centre of defence. Joleon Lescott has a good chance of getting the nod for both games, although the form of Gary Cahill and Phil Jagielka will make Capello’s decision a difficult one.

With Ashley Cole a certain starter at left-back, it will be left to Micah Richards and Manchester United new boy, Phil Jones, to fight it out for the right-back berth.

Capello has a number of midfield options but the final line-up will depend on the formation England start with. While it is hard to imagine Lampard and the in-form Ashley Young not starting, the remaining selections are anyone’s guess. 

Should England begin the match with a five-man midfield, Young and Walcott could well take up forward roles, either side of Wayne Rooney. A three-man midfield of Lampard, Barry and Parker may then provide the midfield control always essential for success away from home in the international game.

A 4-4-2 starting formation will most likely see Andy Carroll partner Rooney upfront. Reports from the England camp this week have suggested Darren Bent may be a doubt for both the Bulgaria and Wales matches due to injury.

Bulgaria coach, Lothar Mattheaus, has included the dangerous Brazilian-born midfielder, Marquinhos in his 22-man squad. Martin Petrov of Bolton and Stiliyan Petrov of Aston Villa are also included although Bulgaria should not pose a major threat to a far superior England team.

England then return to Wembley for the second part of their Euro2012 double header against Wales on Tuesday.

With much of the Welsh squad hailing from the lower leagues, Gareth Bale and Craig Bellamy easily pose the greatest threat to Capello’s men. Home advantage may well lead to a more attacking England line-up for what surely is a must-win game.

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